MS CH 50 Nursing Care of Patients With Peripheral Nervous System Disorders

A condition in which the immune system attacks the myelin sheath that protects nerve fibers in the central nervous system, leading to various neurological symptoms.

Periods of worsening symptoms followed by periods of improvement or stability in MS patients.

Drugs used to suppress or weaken the immune system. Examples include azathioprine (Imuran) and cyclophosphamide (Cytoxan).

A magnetic resonance imaging technique that helps visualize sclerotic plaques (areas of damage) in the brain and spinal cord, aiding in the diagnosis of MS.

A blood test that detects the presence of abnormally high levels of oligoclonal IgG antibodies in the cerebrospinal fluid, indicating a potential immune response in the central nervous system.

Drugs used to relieve muscle spasms associated with MS, including diazepam (Valium), baclofen (Lioresal), and tizanidine (Zanaflex).

Medications used to treat bladder problems in MS patients, such as bethanechol (Urecholine) and oxybutynin (Ditropan).

A common symptom of MS that can be managed with antidepressants or an antiviral agent like amantadine (Symmetrel).

A state where a person is unable to perform activities of daily living due to weakness or fatigue.

The assessment of a person's ability to perform routine tasks.

A medication that strengthens muscles by promoting acetylcholine activity.

The removal of the thymus gland, a gland that produces antibodies that attack acetylcholine receptors.

A decrease in the production of antibodies that attack acetylcholine receptors.

A test that measures the electrical activity of muscles, used to diagnose Myasthenia Gravis.

A serious condition where breathing muscles become weak, leading to respiratory failure.

A test that analyzes the function of lungs, used to assess the risk of respiratory complications in Myasthenia Gravis.

A progressive, degenerative condition affecting motor neurons responsible for voluntary muscle control.

Nerves in the brain and spinal cord that begin to degenerate, forming scar tissue or dying, interrupting nerve impulses.

The process of muscle wasting, shrinking, and loss of strength due to nerve damage.

The potential risk of inhaling food or liquids into the lungs, leading to infection.

The use of assistive communication systems and devices to facilitate communication, especially for individuals with speech impairments.

An inflammatory reaction that destroys myelin, the protective sheath around nerves, leading to slower or blocked nerve conduction.

The gradual deterioration and shrinking of axons, part of the nerve responsible for transmitting impulses.

Infiltration of nerves by immune cells causing swelling and inflammation.

A condition that causes weakness in muscles, particularly in the arms, legs, and muscles related to speech and swallowing. It's characterized by fluctuating muscle strength, meaning weakness can come and go.

Symptoms associated with Myasthenia Gravis, including progressive muscle weakness and decreased coordination, affecting limbs, speech and swallowing.

Involuntary twitching of muscle fibers, commonly seen in Myasthenia Gravis, alongside muscle weakness.

Medication-induced worsening of muscle weakness in Myasthenia Gravis. Many medications can exacerbate the condition.

A critical complication of Myasthenia Gravis where the inability to swallow and chew puts patients at high risk of food entering the airway, leading to choking and lung infections.

Support groups for Myasthenia Gravis patients and their families, providing information, encouragement, and community for navigating the disease.

A comprehensive care plan for Myasthenia Gravis patients, tailored to their individual needs and goals. It includes medication management, physical therapy, and support groups.

The Myasthenia Gravis Foundation of America, a non-profit organization that provides information, resources, and support to individuals with Myasthenia Gravis and their families.

A procedure where a needle is inserted into the spinal canal to withdraw cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Done to diagnose Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS).

Increased protein levels in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) are indicative of Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS).

Tests that measure the speed of electrical signals traveling along nerves. Used to evaluate nerve function in GBS.

Patients with GBS may fear intubation and mechanical ventilation due to their potential complexity and impact.

Immobility associated with GBS can lead to various complications, including skin breakdown, pulmonary embolus, deep vein thrombosis, and muscle atrophy.

Calming and supportive reassurance is crucial for patients with GBS, who often feel anxious and frightened due to the rapid deterioration and uncertainty of their condition.

Diversional activities like visiting with loved ones, listening to music, or watching television can help alleviate boredom, loneliness, and depression in GBS patients during their recovery phases.

Encouraging family members to attend therapy appointments and participate in patient care activities helps create a sense of control, promotes understanding of the disease, and prepares the patient for discharge.

A period of time when MS symptoms worsen, often requiring a change in treatment.

A period of time when MS symptoms improve or remain stable.

These therapies are used to slow down the progression of MS, usually through immune modulation.

These medications, like interferon beta and glatiramer acetate, help the immune system to tolerate the myelin sheath and reduce inflammation.

This symptom of MS is characterized by a gradual worsening of the condition, leading to a worsening of disability; there are no periods of significant remission.

A diagnostic test used to measure the electrical activity of nerves.

This diagnostic test uses electrical stimulation to measure the electrical activity of muscles.

A common symptom of MS, characterized by a sudden worsening of symptoms, often presenting with a variety of neurological problems.

A rare but serious complication of MS that can cause severe muscle weakness and paralysis. May be triggered by infection or stress.

A rare but serious complication of MS that can cause excessive muscle spasms and seizures. It is a result of excess acetylcholine in the body.

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic progressive neurodegenerative disease where the myelin sheath surrounding nerve fibers in the central nervous system is attacked by the immune system, disrupting nerve impulse transmission.

Symptoms include muscle weakness, tingling sensations, numbness, vision disturbances, and pain with eye movement. Symptoms can develop gradually or abruptly.

Extreme heat or cold, fatigue, infection, stress, and hormonal changes can trigger or worsen MS symptoms.

Interferon therapy (Betaseron, Avonex) reduces exacerbations and delays disability. Steroids (ACTH, prednisone) decrease inflammation and neuron edema, relieving some symptoms.

Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) is a rare autoimmune disorder affecting the peripheral nervous system. The immune system attacks the myelin sheath of peripheral nerves, leading to muscle weakness and paralysis.

GBS symptoms include muscle weakness, paralysis, tingling, numbness, and breathing difficulties. Typically symptoms start in the legs and progress upward.

GBS is diagnosed based on clinical assessment, spinal fluid analysis (elevated protein), and nerve conduction studies.

Treatment for GBS focuses on supportive care, such as respiratory support, physical therapy, and plasma exchange or immunoglobulin therapy to remove harmful antibodies.

A blood test that detects antibodies attacking the myelin sheath. It can help diagnose MS in people with symptoms but no identifying antibodies.

A procedure that removes antibodies from the blood, used in MS when a patient experiences severe symptoms.

Focuses on therapies aiming to repair damaged myelin and potentially restore nerve function.

A common symptom of MS where individuals experience double vision or blurred vision.

A common symptom of MS characterized by muscle stiffness and tightness.

A common symptom of MS marked by a sensation of numbness or tingling.

Medications used to manage MS, though there's no cure. They are used to slow down the progression of the disease.,

A period in MS where symptoms worsen, often requiring changes in treatment.

GBS typically affects the peripheral nerves, which are responsible for transmitting signals from the brain and spinal cord to the rest of the body. This leads to problems with muscle movement, sensation, and autonomic function.

GBS usually starts with a gradual onset of weakness, but progresses rapidly to paralysis. It is often symmetrical, meaning both sides of the body are affected equally.

The myelin sheath is a fatty substance that surrounds nerve fibers, helping to speed up the transmission of nerve impulses. When it's damaged, nerve signals can become slow or blocked.

The Autonomic Nervous System (ANS) is part of the nervous system that controls involuntary bodily functions like heart rate, blood pressure, and digestion. It can be affected in GBS, leading to complications.

Due to the rapid deterioration and risk of respiratory failure, patients with GBS may experience fear and anxiety. Providing reassurance, education, and support is crucial for their well-being.

GBS can affect the ability to move and communicate, leading to frustration and social isolation. Encouraging family involvement, providing diversions, and fostering communication can offer a sense of normalcy and support.

A condition affecting polio survivors years after recovery, causing further muscle weakness and disability.

The severity of Postpolio Syndrome depends on the remaining muscle weakness from the initial polio infection.

Postpolio Syndrome weakens muscles that were already affected by polio.

Plasmapheresis removes and replaces plasma to reduce the body's immune response, potentially easing Guillain-Barré Syndrome symptoms.

Immunoglobulin therapy helps reduce the severity of GBS by providing antibodies to fight off the immune system's attack on nerves.

Deep vein thrombosis is a risk during GBS treatment, so anticoagulants are given to prevent blood clots.

During the plateau phase of GBS, patients may feel discouraged as their condition isn't improving. Emotional support is crucial during this time.

Rehabilitation is essential during the recovery phase of GBS to help patients regain lost function.

A condition involving the trigeminal nerve, causing sudden intense facial pain, often described as sharp, stabbing, or burning.

Medications used to treat trigeminal neuralgia, including phenytoin, gabapentin, and carbamazepine.

A procedure that uses a local anesthetic to temporarily block pain signals in the trigeminal nerve.

A surgical procedure that destroys specific nerve fibers in the trigeminal nerve to relieve pain.

A surgical option for trigeminal neuralgia where a nerve is removed if there is no compression.

Therapy approaches for trigeminal neuralgia that can be used alongside conventional treatment, like acupuncture or vitamin therapy.

The patient must protect areas of the face after nerve block or ablation, as they may have reduced sensation.

Goggles and sunglasses help protect the eyes after trigeminal neuralgia treatment, specifically when corneal sensation is lost.

A condition where the body produces antibodies that attack the acetylcholine receptors at the neuromuscular junction, leading to muscle weakness.

The gradual deterioration and shrinkage of axons, a part of the nerve responsible for transmitting impulses. This damage leads to muscle weakness and loss of function.

An inflammatory reaction that damages the myelin sheath, a protective coating around nerve fibers. This damage disrupts nerve conduction, leading to various neurological symptoms.

A procedure where a needle is inserted into the spinal canal to withdraw cerebrospinal fluid. This is used to help diagnose Guillain-Barre syndrome.

The process of muscle wasting, shrinking, and loss of strength due to nerve damage.

The potential risk of inhaling food or liquids into the lungs, leading to inflammation and infection. This risk is especially high for patients with swallowing difficulties.

A nursing diagnosis indicating a patient is at risk for not getting enough nutrients due to weakness or difficulty swallowing.

This patient outcome aims to keep the patient's weight within a healthy range for their height and build.

This intervention focuses on checking the patient's ability to swallow and cough to prevent aspiration (food getting into the lungs).

A nursing diagnosis indicating the patient has difficulty communicating their needs due to problems with breathing or muscle function.

This patient outcome aims to enable the patient to communicate their needs effectively.

This intervention involves assessing the patient's ability to speak and communicate to plan appropriate strategies.

This intervention involves observing the patient for nonverbal signs of pain or distress.

This intervention involves requesting expert help from a speech therapist to evaluate swallowing difficulties and recommend solutions.

These medications can worsen muscle weakness in Myasthenia Gravis. It's crucial to inform your doctor about all medications you take.

This is a critical complication of Myasthenia Gravis. The inability to swallow and chew puts patients at high risk of food entering the airway, leading to choking and lung infections.

The Myasthenia Gravis Foundation of America is a non-profit organization that provides information, resources, and support to individuals with Myasthenia Gravis and their families.

These groups offer information, encouragement, and community for navigating the challenges of Myasthenia Gravis. They provide valuable support to both patients and their families.

This involves a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to the individual's needs and goals. It includes medication management, physical therapy, and access to support groups.

This procedure involves removing the thymus gland. This is done because the thymus gland produces antibodies that attack acetylcholine receptors, which are crucial for muscle function. It is sometimes used to help manage Myasthenia Gravis.

A progressive neurodegenerative disease affecting motor neurons responsible for voluntary muscle control. It leads to muscle weakness, atrophy, and eventually paralysis.

In MG, the body's immune system produces antibodies that attack acetylcholine receptors at the neuromuscular junction, disrupting muscle function.

Ach (acetylcholine) is a neurotransmitter released by neurons to stimulate muscles. In MG, antibodies block acetylcholine from binding to its receptors, leading to weakness.

Muscle weakness is the primary symptom of MG, often worse with activity and improving after rest. The weakness can affect various muscle groups, including those involved in breathing, swallowing, and eye movement.

A progressive, degenerative condition that affects motor neurons responsible for the control of voluntary muscles.

A communication device used to assist individuals with speech and communication difficulties.

The thymus gland may be involved in MG, as it plays a role in immune function. Thymomas (tumors on the thymus) are sometimes associated with the disease.

Electromyography (EMG) is a test that measures electrical activity in muscles. It can be used to diagnose MG by detecting abnormalities in muscle function.

A decrease in the production of antibodies that attack acetylcholine receptors.

Anticholinesterase drugs are used to treat MG. They work by inhibiting the breakdown of acetylcholine, allowing it to stay in the synapse longer and improve muscle function.

A test that measures the electrical activity of muscles, used to diagnose Myasthenia Gravis.

The patient must protect areas of the face after nerve block or ablation, as they may have reduced sensation.

Calming and supportive reassurance is essential for patients with GBS who may feel anxious and scared due to the rapid deterioration and uncertainty of their condition.

Encouraging family involvement helps patients and their loved ones understand GBS, promotes a sense of control, and prepares them for discharge home.

Patients with GBS may be afraid of intubation and mechanical ventilation as it represents a greater risk due to their weakened breathing muscles.

Immobility, often a result of GBS, can lead to complications such as skin breakdown, blood clots, and muscle atrophy. Preventing these complications is crucial.

A blood test to detect antibodies that attack the myelin sheath, useful for diagnosing MS in people with symptoms but no identifying antibodies.

A procedure that removes antibodies from the blood, used to treat MS patients experiencing severe symptoms.

A common symptom of MS where individuals experience double vision or blurred vision.

A rare but serious complication of MS that can cause excessive muscle spasms and seizures.

Increased protein levels in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) are indicative of Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS).

Using techniques like deep breathing, relaxation exercises, and imagery to manage pain, reducing the need for medications.

Activities that distract the patient from their pain, such as reading, listening to music, watching movies, or completing puzzles.

Regularly providing the patient with the opportunity to cleanse their body and maintain hygiene to reduce discomfort when performing these activities.

Using adaptive equipment or strategies for communication, such as writing, drawing, or using assistive devices, to help the patient express themselves.

Providing eye protection to prevent further damage to the affected eye, especially when exposed to dust, wind, or sunlight.

Bell's palsy is a condition that causes temporary weakness or paralysis of the facial muscles, usually on one side of the face. It occurs when the facial nerve, which controls facial expressions, is inflamed.

The trigeminal nerve is one of the largest cranial nerves. It controls sensation and movement in the face, teeth, and parts of the head. In trigeminal neuralgia, the trigeminal nerve becomes irritated or inflamed.

EMG, or electromyography, is a diagnostic test used to measure the electrical activity of muscles. It can help diagnose Bell's palsy by assessing facial muscle function.

Prednisone is a corticosteroid medication that helps reduce inflammation. It is often used to treat Bell's palsy to reduce inflammation and improve facial nerve function.

Acyclovir is an antiviral medication used to fight viral infections, including herpes simplex virus. It may be used to treat Bell's palsy if a viral infection is suspected to be the cause.

A facial sling is a support device used to help support the facial muscles and improve eating abilities for patients with Bell's palsy. It helps reduce facial muscle strain.

Warm, moist compresses can help reduce muscle spasms, pain, and inflammation in patients with Bell's palsy. They improve blood circulation in facial muscles.

The facial nerve controls the muscles on one side of the face. When it's inflamed or damaged, it can't send signals properly, leading to facial weakness or paralysis.

While the exact cause of Bell's palsy is unknown, it's likely triggered by a viral infection that inflames the facial nerve.

The good news is that Bell's palsy often gets better on its own within several weeks or months. While there's no cure, treatments focus on managing symptoms and helping the nerve recover.

Though there's no cure, treatment aims to manage pain, keep the eye moist, and encourage facial movement and exercises. These strategies support nerve recovery and minimize complications.

Bell's palsy can cause temporary weakness or paralysis of the facial muscles, making it hard to smile, frown, or close the eye. It's important to remember that it's often temporary and that the nerve can recover.